Using Reverse Psychology To Calm Your Rebellious Child

Children these days are smart, in fact they are smarter than kids of the last 2 generations put together. Parents of the 21st century often find themselves wondering, how did children get so smart!

Parenting techniques and tactics that were used in the 20th century do not work with majority of the kids these days. Disciplining is becoming a mighty tough task due to these limitations.

In the 21st century, there are various types of new and improved parenting methods that are used to deal with intelligent children.

It is a fact that there is no full-proof method to deal with kids who have an answer ready for just about anything. However, there are a set of approved methods that can help you discipline your child, without being too harsh.

Children can be a handful to deal with, especially if your child is independent and boisterous. Rebellion often occurs when a child is about to enter into the adolescence age. However, this is not a hard-and-fast rule, as many children start rebelling at a younger age.

Continue reading to know the best ways to use reverse psychology, without alerting your child of the tactics being used.

Understand The Situation Before Acting: You will have to change your tactics depending on the situation.

For instance, a 7-year-old child can be encouraged to eat his vegetables by merely saying, "I wonder who can eat these vegetables in 10 minutes, it looks like a tough task." However, stating the same thing to an older child will not work, as with age comes an increased level of common sense.

To get your 15-year-old daughter to do something, you can try saying this. "Jane, I am tired of being a task master all the time. I wish you would listen to me, but I guess you are old enough to decide for yourself. You should just know that, I know you will do the right thing and not let me down."

Use Reverse Psychology Only When Needed: Reverse psychology is not a bad thing when done right and without hurting your child's emotions. This being said, eventually your child will understand that you are manipulating him.

If he does get wiser, then he might just fight back by giving you a dose of your own medicine! More importantly, being known as a parent who manipulates constantly is never a good thing, as you will lose your trustworthiness. See the severity of the situation, use reverse psychology only when you do not have any other play in your handbook left.

Explain The Importance Of The Matter To Your Child: At times, explaining the situation to your rebellious child can do wonders. This technique works when you explain the pros and cons of each action in a simplified way.

Once your child understands the situation, he will be able to do what is right. Use positive phrases such as, "Good job, I am proud of your choice and I am glad you understood the matter".